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Heading to the Pacific Northwest, Seattle is known for being set in one of the most lush, dreamlike spots in the U.S., but not much in the lower 48 compares to the grandeur and majesty of the area surrounding Anchorage. Which is more deserving of being called the scenic crown jewel of the PNW?
P.S. After reading all if the detailed, insightful responses to the last two threads, I’ve decided to make this a series of sorts. I’ll take some time in-between posts so as not to flood the forum too heavily.
Location: East of Seattle since 1992, 615' Elevation, Zone 8b - originally from SF Bay Area
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The biggest differences:
Anchorage has scenic beauty from most of the city, while much of Seattle has blocked views.
The mountains visible from Anchorage are much higher and wider than the Olympics and Mt Rainier.
Anchorage has scenic winter snow, rare in Seattle with mostly just non-scenic rain.
Is Anchorage considered the PNW? I didn't think it was. Anyway, Anchorage seems more dramatic, with its mountains being closer and having an extreme climate. I admittedly have never been, but from pictures it looks stunning. The cold and rugged feel is not for me though. Anchorage is probably more beautiful. But Seattle seems to be more biodiverse and also has visible volcanoes from the city limits. And it is gorgeous! You're not missing out by being there. On top of that you are able to enjoy it all year (if you're willing to endure 40's and rain in the winter). For me personally Seattle. But I totally understand and respect the argument for Anchorage.
Love both but I think a big difference is the prominence of the mountains in Seattle. From Anchorage the Chugach Range is very close and, while tall, the prominent peaks are not visible from the city. Denali is well over a hundred miles from Anchorage and while visible on a clear day, it doesn't have the awe factor from the city that Rainier does being around 30 miles from the metro area in the south (if you get anywhere near Denali this changes). Tough call to vote for either honestly, both are stunning when the weather permits
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